how do prokaryotes and eukaryotes differ in how they store genetic material?
a. prokaryotes have rna instead of dna
b. eukaryotes lack a true nucleus.
c. prokaryotes lack a true nucleus
d. eukaryotes have rna instead of dna
c. prokaryotes lack a true nucleus
The correct answer is:
c. prokaryotes lack a true nucleus
Prokaryotes, including bacteria and archaea, do not have a membrane-bound nucleus like eukaryotes do. Instead, their genetic material is present in the form of a single, circular DNA molecule located in the cytoplasm. In contrast, eukaryotes have a true nucleus that houses their genetic material, which is organized into multiple linear DNA molecules called chromosomes.
The correct answer is c. prokaryotes lack a true nucleus.
Prokaryotes, which include bacteria and archaea, are simple organisms that lack a nucleus. Instead, they have a single circular DNA molecule that is usually located in the cytoplasm. This DNA molecule, known as bacterial chromosome, contains all the genetic information necessary for the prokaryote to function and reproduce. It is not surrounded by a nuclear membrane or organized into distinct chromosomes.
On the other hand, eukaryotes, which include plants, animals, fungi, and protists, have a nucleus. The nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle that houses the genetic material, which is organized into multiple linear chromosomes. These chromosomes consist of DNA that is wrapped around proteins called histones. Eukaryotic DNA is much larger and more complex than prokaryotic DNA.
Therefore, the main difference between prokaryotes and eukaryotes in how they store genetic material is that prokaryotes lack a true nucleus, while eukaryotes have a nucleus where the DNA is contained.